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Ukraine’s F-16s Just Got a New Add-On—and It’s Shredding Enemy Drones
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jets were spotted equipped with advanced targeting pods that allow the integration of laser-guided weapons—including the US-made APKWS II precision rocket system, which enables far more cost-effective engagements against drones. A photo of the upgraded jet was published by the Telegram channel Avia OFN on December 4.
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The image shows what appear to be two LAU-131/A pods—each capable of carrying seven 70mm rockets—along with a hanging targeting pod that defense outlet Militarnyi identifies as likely the Sniper XP mounted on the right side of the intake.
These pods are essential: without them, Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) II rockets cannot be employed. The system has emerged as one of the most affordable and effective ways to destroy drones, avoiding the high cost of expending traditional air-to-air missiles.
The Sniper line of targeting pods is produced by Lockheed Martin. They provide identification and automatic target tracking day and night, laser designation, and precision guidance for various munitions.
Their capabilities support strikes against both air and ground targets—including drones—while also enabling reconnaissance with optical zoom, thermal imaging, and laser pointing.
Several European countries that have supplied military assistance to Ukraine—including Norway, Denmark, and the Netherlands—currently operate Sniper XP pods, Militarnyi notes.
The integration mirrors recent US experience. Earlier this year, US Air Force F-16s were spotted using similar APKWS II setups while intercepting Houthi drones, and in May, a US F-15E Strike Eagle from the 96th Test Wing appeared with six LAU-131/A pods configured for the same role.
According to Militanyi, by summer, a US F-16 from the 20th Fighter Wing was displayed carrying six seven-tube LAU-131/A pods adapted for APKWS rockets—a loadout offering a substantial number of low-cost drone interceptors.
Earlier, reports emerged that F-16 fighters carried out more than 300 successful strikes on Russian ground targets since entering service last year.
-4b6d67087ea264339fc0ce363961b255.jpg "Russian Drone Attack in Kharkiv Region Kills Two Men Loading Firewood")
-111f0e5095e02c02446ffed57bfb0ab1.jpeg "Photo of Roman Kohanets")
